This regulation was introduced with the amendment of the EU Chemicals Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, also known as the CLP Regulation. The obligation for UFI labeling is implemented in several steps.

Deadlines for marking with the UFI code

The extension of the CLP Regulation came into force on January 1, 2020. A transition period was defined to organize the labeling of your products containing hazardous mixtures.

January 2021: All new products supplied to end users (e.g., household cleaners).
January 2021: All newly produced goods that are used commercially (e.g., oils and lubricants)
January 2024: Newly produced mixtures that are further processed in production (e.g., dry concrete, chalk)
January 2025: All goods with physical and health hazards available on the market (end of transition period)

Scope of the UFI marking requirement

The labeling obligation concerns all mixtures that have been classified as hazardous based on their influence on health and their physical effect. The information on the mixtures must be provided by importers or downstream users established in the European Economic Area.

But how does this work if you import products from outside the European Economic Area?

Data transmission to the Poison Control Centre is not done by the manufacturer, who is located outside the EEA, but by the importer located in the European Economic Area.

Structure of the UFI number

The Unique Formula Identifier is a 16-digit alphanumeric code which is printed on packaging. The code is divided into four sections with hyphens and must be preceded by the abbreviation “UFI” in capital letters. The UFI on the label or packaging must be clearly visible.

The UFI code is composed of the company’s Value Added Tax (VAT) identification number and a formulation number (e.g., internal recipe code.) The formulation number must be a natural number between 0 and 268,435,255. Thus, the UFI number can be generated from these two numbers via the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA.)

This identifier makes the trade name, the composition of the mixture, the product category, and the toxicological information, among other things, easily retrievable for the poison control center.

     

How can Matthews Marking Systems assist you?

Do you produce goods that are considered hazardous mixtures? We offer professional marking and labelling solutions to complement your manufacturing process. In addition to our robust drop-on-demand printheads, we offer a flexible labeling system that can serve a wide variety of applications including automatic pallet labeling. Contact us today and we’ll be happy to advise you on marking or labeling your products.